The Upful LIFE Podcast – Episode 029: KENDALL DEFLIN (Backline), CHRIS PERELLA (Ardmore Music Hall), BILLY IUSO – Isolation Station v.1
Episode 029 of *The Upful LIFE Podcast* switches the script in light of the COVID-19 global pandemic. Welcome 2 ISOLATION STATION v.1. For this episode, we’ll have three shorter form interviews that directly address the fallout from the virus and it’s paralyzing effect on the music culture, industry, and communities. I wanted to give people a platform and program that can communicate and connect different geographic areas, artists, activists, producers, promoters, movers, shakers, fans and the like. My intention is for this podcast to transition, and organically be in service to anyone it can reach, educate, entertain, inspire, and humor. Now is the time to live our Upful LIFE.
DONATE TO BACKLINE HERE!
Kendall Deflin Intro @ 9:00
We kick things off by checking in with KENDALL DEFLIN of BACKLINE, a non-profit that connects music industry & mental health professionals. Kendall comes on to discuss Backline’s Case Management Program, wherein trained mental health professionals work one-on-one with individuals to connect them with mental health resources specifically catered to the music industry lifestyle. Also : “Come Together: COVID-19 Crisis” initiative, offering bi-weekly support groups, movement and meditation sessions in partnership with like-minded organizations to help bring mental health and wellness to the music industry. Beyond the work, Kendall brings her own brand of everyday sunshine and positive energy, (as well as a sailor’s vocab) to the enlightening dialogue, with a few silver linings taboot.
CHRIS PERELLA INTRO @ 30 Min
After Kendall, we hear from another former boss and forever friend, CHRIS PERELLA, owner/talent buyer at Ardmore Music Hall, just outside Philly. The legendary CP, who hired me at now-defunct Philly haunt The Blockley, returns to the show to break down how he and his teams have deftly navigated the concert industry grinding to standstill. Includes very profound perspective on how things might shape up differently for independent/small businesses and regional/local concert promoters and talent buyers, once we enter a new normal, whenever that may be. Astute observations and hella hot takes from the one & only Chris Perella. DONATE to the ARDMORE MUSIC HALL STAFF FUND HERE
BILLY IUSO INTRO @ 1hr 11min
Batting third is BILLY IUSO, our old friend and rock n’roll troubadour down in the great city of New Orleans. We take a few minutes to check in with Billy on how things have been for him as the virus and fallout have really put NOLA in a vice grip, on a lot of levels. Billy talks chill time, family hangs, live streams, and the foggy future, plus a good dose of positive vibes from the Crescent City. Check out Billy Iuso on Facebook for live streams, links to merch and more.
Vibe Junkie JAM of the Week:
LUTAN FYAH – STILL DRE – SPECIAL FI IRIE ITES RECORDED 2003 LE MANS, FR
ISOLATION STATION. NorCal, USA